Action 1:
- Open chinook fishing in the Okanogan River and the lower Similkameen River Aug. 20, 2005 through Sept. 30, 2005.

Action 2:
- Allow game fish, except trout, to be retained in the Okanogan River Sept. 1 to Sept. 30, 2005.

Effective dates:
Aug. 20, 2005 through Sept. 30, 2005.

Species affected:
Chinook salmon in the Okanogan and Similkameen rivers and game fish in the Okanogan River.

Locations:

(1) Okanogan River from the Highway 97 bridge near the mouth to the railroad trestle (bridge) downstream of the Lake Osoyoos Control Dam in Oroville.

(2) Similkameen River from the mouth upstream to the county road bridge in Oroville.

Reason for action:
The upper Columbia River summer chinook return is very strong with 22,000 fish passing Wells Dam as of July 29. Escapement exceeds hatchery broodstock and wild broodstock spawning needs and there is a harvestable surplus. The stocks are stable, not listed under ESA and the expanded fishery has been deemed by NMFS not likely to have a negative impact on ESA-listed Okanogan basin steelhead.

Other information:
Daily limit is six salmon, no more than two adults. All coho and sockeye must be released. Non-buoyant lure restriction and night closure are in effect.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.